50CAL VS TRAIN TRACK TIE PLATE

Published on December 16, 2017
Duration: 10:19

This video demonstrates the ballistic performance of various calibers against a heavy steel railroad tie plate. The .50 BMG API and AP rounds show significant penetration capabilities, with one AP round famously embedding its core. In contrast, 9mm and 7.62x39mm rounds show limited damage. The content showcases the expertise of Edwin Sarkissian in experimental ballistics testing.

Quick Summary

This video showcases experimental ballistics testing by Edwin Sarkissian, pitting .50 BMG rounds against heavy steel railroad tie plates. The .50 BMG API and AP rounds demonstrate significant penetration, with one AP round's core embedding in the target. In contrast, 9mm and 7.62x39mm rounds show minimal impact, highlighting the vast difference in terminal ballistics and penetration power.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Target Setup
  2. 00:53.50 Cal API Round Test
  3. 02:14.50 Cal AP Black Tip Test
  4. 04:01The 'Stuck' Bullet Phenomenon
  5. 07:019mm Handgun Comparison
  6. 07:447.62x39mm SKS Testing
  7. 09:08Conclusion and Rifle Showcase

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penetration capability of a .50 BMG round against steel?

A .50 BMG API round can easily penetrate a half-inch thick steel railroad tie plate and significantly deform a second plate. An AP round's hardened core can even become embedded halfway through the second plate, demonstrating extreme penetration power.

How does a 9mm round perform against a steel railroad tie plate?

A standard 9mm 115-grain FMJ round fired from a Glock 17 had no discernible effect on a steel railroad tie plate, leaving only a superficial lead splash and no dents or damage.

Can a 7.62x39mm round penetrate a steel railroad tie plate?

While 7.62x39mm rounds fired from a suppressed SKS did not fully penetrate the steel railroad tie plate, they did create small craters approximately a quarter-inch deep.

What is the difference between .50 BMG API and AP ammunition?

.50 BMG API (Armor Piercing Incendiary) rounds contain a penetrator and an incendiary charge, while AP (Armor Piercing) rounds focus solely on penetration with a hardened core, often identifiable by a black tip.

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